Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.”
― Anton Chekhov
SHOW DON'T TELL
Show, don’t tell is a writing technique and one of the golden rules for all writers, new or old. In other words it means using actions, sensory details, words, or the expression of characters’ emotions, rather than describing the events and emotions.
It helps readers to experience what the character is going through and draws them into the narrative.
It is an immersive style which lets the reader, “be in the room” with the characters.
Don't show the reader how your characters feel. Show the reader, let them picture what the characters are going through by making use of the five senses:
sight,
sound,
smell,
taste and,
touch.
To not fall into the trap of telling you should immerse yourself completely into that scene, and demonstrate what is happening.
For example
TELL: Rohit was bored.
SHOW: Rohit’s foot was tapping a steady rhythm on the floor. He picked up his pen and started doodling in his notebook. It seemed to him like the hour would never pass.
"Don’t tell your reader what to think. Show the emotion and let the reader feel it."
However, it is important to remember there are no hard and fast rules for writing. Find the style that suits you best. If you are able to engage your reader by telling more than showing then don't worry about rules.
There are hundreds of articles with examples and games which can help you with getting better at SHOWING NOT TELLING. Before you start your writing process don't forget to brush up on this great technique.
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